Homeschooling is a big job, and having the right tools at the ready makes the days go so much more smoothly. We can all guess that we're going to need paper, pens, glue, and such, but I want to share some of the more homeschool-specific supplies that bring joy and ease to my days. This… Continue reading My Must-Have Homeschool Supplies
Serafina and the Black Cloak Discussion Questions
Serafina describes herself many times as a "creature of the night." What does that mean? What are other "creatures of the night" (both natural and supernatural)? What connotations does "creature of the night" have? Does Serafina's character align with those connotations?Why do you think the author chose to set the story in a real historical… Continue reading Serafina and the Black Cloak Discussion Questions
The Secret of Goldenrod Book Club
Probably like many of you, our school year is looking a little - actually, a lot - different in 2020-2021, and our book club is among the elements of our learning plan that have changed drastically. We're no longer meeting at a cute little coffee shop and enjoying hot cocoa or a cookie as we… Continue reading The Secret of Goldenrod Book Club
13 Spooky Middle Grade Chapter Books
One of my favorite ways to celebrate Halloween is with a read aloud that helps us get a good spine tingle or step into a spooky atmosphere via our imaginations. Here are 13 middle grade book selections that fit the bill, all perfect for read alouds or independent reading. (This post contains affiliate links. Clicking… Continue reading 13 Spooky Middle Grade Chapter Books
What to Do After All About Reading
First of all, congratulations! I know from my own experience that completing the All About Reading program with a child is a huge accomplishment, both for the child and for you. That level 4 certificate represents countless hours of hard work and struggle that you and your child conquered. But now what? Especially for kids… Continue reading What to Do After All About Reading
I Got the Curriculum. Now What?
The box of curriculum is finally here! You spent countless hours researching, comparing, and considering all of the options out there. But now what? How do you turn this pile of shiny-covered tomes into actual, productive learning with your kids? Don't worry. You'll get there, and I've got some easy, actionable steps to help you.… Continue reading I Got the Curriculum. Now What?
My Top 10 Reads for Mama from 2019
When I set up this blog, I had every intention of making frequently updated book recommendations for young readers, teen readers, and mama readers. Sadly, the pages under those tabs have been "under construction" since I started this blog three years ago. Ahem. All signs are pointing to me not being capable of keeping up… Continue reading My Top 10 Reads for Mama from 2019
5th Grade Curriculum and Routine
This post contains affiliate links. Clicking on them costs you nothing and helps to support this blog. Thank you! Our Morning Routine We do these things in this order because it's what works for us. If any part of it doesn't suit you or your kids, it is OKAY to do things differently. Even if… Continue reading 5th Grade Curriculum and Routine
Get Your Kids Hooked on Books with Netflix
I know a thing or two about struggling readers, both as a classroom teacher and as a mom, and one of my favorite tools for helping kids delve into reading is offering it up as a way to get more interaction with a current obsession. Sometimes that means putting a car magazine in the hands… Continue reading Get Your Kids Hooked on Books with Netflix
The Summer of Strewing
Summer camp is cancelled. The library's summer program is online this year. The pool is closed. What are we going to do with these kids this summer? I wish so much that I could change the state of the world and forge ahead with a fun, traditional summer. But I can't. And more than anything… Continue reading The Summer of Strewing
The Language Arts Coach 